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Dominican Republic Launches EcoHarmony RD to Strengthen Biodiversity Conservation
The Dominican Republic's Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched EcoHarmony RD, a new initiative designed to strengthen biodiversity conservation through Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) while advancing the country's contribution to the global 30x30 conservation target.
The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have formally signed the agreement for EcoHarmony RD: Advancing OECMs for Biodiversity Integration in Dominican Landscapes, a project aimed at expanding biodiversity conservation while promoting sustainable development across the Dominican Republic.
Funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the initiative focuses on strengthening the recognition, management, and long-term effectiveness of Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs). These conservation areas complement traditional protected areas and are expected to play an important role in helping the country achieve the international 30×30 target, which calls for the effective conservation of 30% of the world’s terrestrial and marine ecosystems by 2030.
Supporting Conservation Beyond Protected Areas
Unlike officially designated protected areas, OECMs are geographically defined spaces that deliver lasting biodiversity conservation outcomes through effective governance and management. The concept was formally recognized under the Convention on Biological Diversity’s Decision 14/8, adopted in 2018, and also acknowledges the protection of ecosystem services and, where appropriate, associated cultural, spiritual, social, and economic values.
Through EcoHarmony RD, authorities aim to strengthen environmental governance, improve institutional and community capacities, mobilize financial resources for long-term conservation efforts, and encourage knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices among stakeholders.
Collaboration Across Multiple Sectors
The agreement was signed by Environment Minister Paíno Henríquez and UNDP Resident Representative Ana María Díaz. During the ceremony, both officials emphasized that the project will help the Dominican Republic meet national and international commitments related to biodiversity conservation, climate action, and sustainable development.
They also highlighted the importance of stronger coordination among public institutions, international organizations, the private sector, academic institutions, and local communities to ensure that conservation efforts generate lasting environmental and social benefits.
Agreement Signed During Ocean Forum
The signing ceremony took place at the Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo (INTEC) during the country’s First Ocean Forum. The event brought together representatives from government, academia, international organizations, and civil society to discuss initiatives aimed at protecting both marine and terrestrial ecosystems while promoting the integration of biodiversity into the Dominican Republic’s broader sustainable development strategies.
By reinforcing OECMs and encouraging collaborative conservation efforts, EcoHarmony RD is expected to strengthen the country’s environmental resilience while supporting global biodiversity objectives over the coming years.
